Travellers, including those from Sunbury and Macedon Ranges, are being urged to plan ahead, with Melbourne Airport anticipating its busiest international summer period on record.
The airport expects to welcome more than 4.8 million passengers, including more than 1.8 million international travellers, between December 13 and January 27.
Melbourne Airport is upgrading its terminal and road infrastructure to help accommodate growing traveller numbers, and is recommending passengers add an extra 30 minutes to their travel time.
Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said staff were looking forward to welcoming holiday travellers.
“We’re excited to play our part in the Christmas plans of so many Australians, but with such large volumes of people travelling this year, planning ahead will help ensure the best start possible,” she said.
“Construction of our new elevated express roadway means airport car parks are operating with fewer bays and will likely sell out on most weekends, so we’d recommend passengers plan ahead and book online, which also ensures they secure the cheapest available rate.
“Anyone planning to park at the airport should allow extra time to find a space, as the car parks will be busy.”
She said increased demand will soon be made more manageable.
“The forecast record international passenger numbers highlight the need for Melbourne Airport to start building its third runway, which was approved by the federal government in September,” she said.
